Map & Compass Instructions

When embarking on a hiking or camping trip, it is important to bring along the necessary safety tools. These tools can make the difference between a happy weekend or a dangerous one. Two essential camping safety tools are a map and a compass. Together, these tools help you navigate your surroundings and make the most out of your outdoor adventure.

Things You'll Need

  • Map
  • Compass
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Instructions

    • 1

      Using your map, identify your current location and your desired destination. If you are unsure of your location, look for landmarks in your surroundings that match the landmarks on your maps, such as trails or streams, to get your bearings and determine where you are.

    • 2

      Position the long edge of the compass on the map with your current location aligned over the spinning portion of the compass, and your destination closer to the end which features the directional arrow.

    • 3

      Turn the adjustable housing around the spinning portion of the compass so that the orientation lines align with the longitudinal lines on your map. It is important that the orientation arrow is pointing north. If the orientation arrow is pointing south when you align it with the longitudinal lines, you will end up travelling in the wrong direction.

    • 4

      Turn so that the compass arrow is pointing through the orientation arrow.

    • 5

      Hold the compass level to the ground and follow the direction of the travel arrow. The easiest way to follow the arrow is to stand in place, look down the directional arrow and identify a landmark in the distance along that line. Staring at the compass the entire time as you walk may cause you to stumble and fall.